In a recent Hard Knock Radio conversation, host Davey D sat down with Kalimah Priforce, a progressive city council member in Emeryville, CA, who ishttps://hardknockradio.org/kalimah-priforce-pecolia-manigo-discuss-political-pushback-progressive-challenges/ facing political pushback due to his outspoken activism. Priforce, known for his work advocating for social justice and systemic change, discussed the national trend of political retribution aimed at progressives, particularly those challenging the power of large corporations and entrenched political structures. He described the coordinated attacks on left-leaning individuals as part of a larger effort to suppress movements pushing for equality and justice.
The Broader National Trend of Political Retribution
Priforce stated these attacks are part of a broader national issue, not just limited to his city. Priforce emphasized the need for a united front to free people, despite abolitionists’ disagreements on the approach.
Councilman Priforce expressed frustration with tech companies and real estate developers shaping harmful policies for the working class.
Priforce questioned how to create better tenant protections while accepting money from real estate developers, highlighting a policy conflict.
Challenges within the Democratic Party and Corporate Influence
In addition to discussing local political battles, Priforce reflected on his broader vision of freedom for his community. “What’s happening is that the saviors are sponsored by Walmart and Home Depot,” he said. He pointed to the undue influence of corporate interests on public policy. He critiqued the Democratic Party for its failure to support the progressive change that so many of its constituents need.
Priforce asked: “How do we actually create better policies if we’re taking money from big pharma and big energy?”
He pointed out the contradictions in the party’s actions versus its promises.
Tech Industry’s Role in Shaping Economic Opportunities
Priforce also expressed concerns about how technology is used to perpetuate systemic inequalities. He shared his experience in the tech industry, where he saw firsthand how young people, especially from marginalized communities, are often steered into becoming workers for major tech companies rather than entrepreneurs. “I want to train our youth to be hackers, not just workers. Hackers have the freedom to choose, to create, and to innovate,” Priforce explained. He pointed out that Silicon Valley’s focus on nurturing workers instead of fostering entrepreneurs stifles creativity and limits opportunities for true economic freedom.
Political Retribution and Censorship in Emeryville
The conversation also touched on Priforce’s personal battles with local political pushback. He described being censured by the Emeryville City Council after supporting progressive candidates, most notably Nikki Bass for Alameda County Supervisor. “They orchestrated a vote to censure me without charges, simply because I challenged the status quo,” he said. Priforce believes his actions played a significant role in removing political opponents from office, further fueling the pushback against him. Despite these obstacles, Priforce remains resolute.
“I may be blamed for his loss, but I’m not backing down,” he said, referring to his involvement in the campaign against John Bauters, a local political ‘bigwig’ he viewed as part of the problem.
The Importance of Grassroots Organizing
Looking ahead, Priforce remains focused on creating meaningful change in his community. He emphasized the importance of grassroots organizing in countering the influence of big money in politics. “If progressives were better organized, we would be fighting back, swinging our swords like Jedi’s,” he joked, highlighting the growing network of activists and organizers who are beginning to collaborate on a national scale.
Priforce is also working toward the establishment of a public ethics commission in Emeryville to increase accountability in local governance.
How to Support Kalimah Priforce’s Efforts
Priforce urged listeners to support his efforts by attending a special meeting at Emeryville City Hall on Tuesday at 6:30 PM. He noted thats when the city council is set to vote on his censure.
“I’m a free black man, and we’re not about to let this brother hang,” he declared. Priforce urged the community to stand with him. He also encouraged people to sign a petition to support the creation of an independent Public Ethics Commission in Emeryville. He said that’s a crucial step in curbing political corruption and ensuring accountability.
The Intersection of Politics, Tech, and Social Justice
In conclusion, Priforce’s interview highlights the tension between politics, tech, and social justice. It reveals conflicts between grassroots movements and corporate interests. As he fights for equitable policies, Priforce remains committed to empowering marginalized communities. He aims to help them reclaim their freedom and resist forces controlling their lives.
Pecolia Manigo Provides Critical Election Updates
In the second segment of Hard Knock Radio, Pecolia Manigo of Oakland Rising discussed key issues in Oakland’s politics. She began by talking about the recall of Mayor Sheng Tao. Manigo mentioned that City Council President Nikki Bass would likely serve as interim mayor, but once she moves on to serve in her newly elected role as Alameda County supervisor, there will be the likelihood of serious political instability.
She stressed the need for residents to follow the mayoral transition closely. Manigo also raised concerns about Oakland’s growing budget deficit, caused by overspending in the police department. She urged residents to question police spending, especially the high overtime pay.
The discussion then turned to the results of the Oakland at-large race, where it was noted that Rowena Brown was leading after nine rounds of ranked-choice voting. She also touched on victories in District 3 (Caroll Fife ) and the the 9th congressional district race (Lateefah Simon), highlighting continued efforts by Oakland Rising to boost voter participation. Manigo voiced her support for their campaigns, stressing the importance of community engagement in electoral success.
The conversation concluded with a critique of the Oakland police force, addressing inefficiencies and corruption within the department. Manigo emphasized the need for systemic reform, transparency, and stronger internal controls to combat these issues and restore accountability to city government.
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